SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream

SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream
6.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
3.2 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
6Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers

Review

Does SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.6 out of 10.
  • Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy. With an anti-wrinkle rating of 6.0 out of 10, SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream is effective in minimizing wrinkles.
  • Soothing: SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
  • Antioxidant protection.

Lightweight moisturizer perfect for oily to normal skin

According to CreamScan analysis, SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈9.0%) and Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate (est. ≈6.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 3.2 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate (est. ≈3.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with oily skin who want maximum hydration in a relatively lightweight, non-greasy formula. It combines a significant amount of humectants with a limited amount of occlusive ingredients to boost moisturizing efficacy without feeling too heavy.

This product may also be a good choice for people with normal skin who prefer fast-absorbing textures, as it balances significant moisturizing potential with a relatively lightweight texture.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Significant anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream has a high anti-wrinkle rating of 6.0 out of 10.

It contains one ingredient with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy: Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%), 
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
 
Among others, SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream also contains some ingredients marketed often as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Copper Gluconate, and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Rich in skin-protecting antioxidants

We estimate that SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

Skin soothing and calming potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, SK-II LXP Ultimate Revival Cream is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Niacinamide (est. ≈4.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Isononanoate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Triethylhexanoin
Function:
Origin:
Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sucrose Polycottonseedate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Function:
Origin:
Myristyl Myristate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides
Function:
Origin:
Pentylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sorbitan Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Myristyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
PEG-40 Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Batyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Polyacrylamide
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 65
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Function:
Origin:
Methylparaben
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Laureth-7
Function:
Origin:
Crithmum Maritimum Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ethylparaben
Function:
Origin:
Fragrance
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Aspartate
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hydroxide
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Copper Gluconate
Function:
Origin:
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract
Function:
Origin:
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7
Function:
Origin:
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Function:
Origin:
Hexapeptide-3
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
22.5
9
6
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
6.4
3.0
1.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 22.5 10
10.0
9
6
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 6.4 20
3.2
3.0
1.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
6.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
9
6
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 22.5 10
10
All humectants
22.5
9
6
4
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
3
1.5
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 6.4 20
3.2
All occlusives
6.4
3.0
1.5
1.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
6 /10 4 4 6
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
6
Niacinamide
6
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
4
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Copper Gluconate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 4.9 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
4.9
Niacinamide
4
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Crithmum Maritimum Extract
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 5.2 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
5.2
4
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %60
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Glycerin
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate
Niacinamide
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate
Ethylhexyl Isononanoate
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl IsononanoateA synthetic ester (simple oil) that does not feel greasy or heavy. It can also reduce the sticky or greasy feeling of other ingredients.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Triethylhexanoin
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
TriethylhexanoinAn occlusive and emollient ester of glycerin and a fatty acid. It is easily spreadable and does not leave a sticky after-feel.
Neopentyl Glycol Diethylhexanoate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Neopentyl Glycol DiethylhexanoateNeopentyl glycol diethylhexanoate is a blend of neopentyl glycol, an organic chemical compound used in production of lubricants, and hexanoic fatty acid. The ingredient has similar properties to its brother - Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate. It also serves as an emollient or a formula thickness adjuster.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Sucrose Polycottonseedate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sucrose Polycottonseedate
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl Stearate SEAn emulsifier, where the SE stands for self-emulsifying. Emulsions containing glyceryl stearate SE often impart a smooth, velvety feel upon the skin.
Myristyl Myristate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristyl MyristateAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient ester that is derived from vegetables. This soft, wax-like ester produces a soft and creamy sensorial profile. Myristyl myristate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Coco-GlyceridesA vegetable-derived stabilized oily solid that can act as an alternative to petroleum jelly. Like petroleum jelly it can bring creaminess to a formula.
Pentylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.

Sorbitan Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sorbitan StearateA vegetable-derived ingredient most commonly used as an emulsifier to stabilize water and oil mixtures.
Myristyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Myristyl AlcoholA naturally derived fatty alcohol that thickens and stabilizes emulsions.
PEG-40 Stearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-40 StearateThis PEG, or polyethylene glycol, is excellent at emulsifying water and oil together to form oil-in-water emulsions. Due to its water-loving nature, PEG-40 stearate can also act as a cleansing agent.
Batyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Batyl AlcoholA fatty alcohol that can co-emulsify and provide moisturization to the skin.
Polyacrylamide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PolyacrylamideA synthetic ingredient that can thicken products instantly while still keeping them light and often gel-like.
Benzyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Alcohol

A multifunctional ingredient that is supplied as a clear, colorless liquid. Its main function is as a flavoring agent and fragrance. It also acts as a broad-spectrum preservative, solvent, and viscosity-controlling agent that thins the product.

Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Polysorbate 65
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 65
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
C13-14 Isoparaffin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
C13-14 IsoparaffinA lightweight petroleum derivative. It is a very thin liquid that functions as an emollient and a solvent for other liquids (such as thicker oils or silicones).
Methylparaben
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MethylparabenA preservative that keeps a product unspoiled. There has been a lot of controversy surrounding parabens, although the concentrations found in cosmetic formulations are generally considered to be safe.
Hydrogenated Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated LecithinA version of plain lecithin that has been saturated with hydrogen atoms. This ingredient can be derived from plants, like soy or sunflower, from egg yolks, or made synthetically. Its major function is to emulsify water and oils.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Laureth-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Laureth-7A mild but effective functional ingredient. It can emulsify (efficiently mix water and oil) without needing too much in a formula.
Crithmum Maritimum Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Crithmum Maritimum ExtractDerived from sea fennel, this extract contains antioxidant flavonoids and organic acids and has a spicy, herbaceous aroma.
Ethylparaben
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylparabenA cost-effective preservative that belongs to the group of parabens. There has been a lot of controversy surrounding parabens, although the concentrations found in cosmetic formulations are generally considered to be safe.
Fragrance
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
FragranceUnder trade secret law, manufacturers have the right not to disclose what exactly went into the fragrance and use the unspecific word Fragrance or Parfum instead. Many fragrances are highly allergenic.
Magnesium Aspartate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium AspartateA humectant salt of aspartic acid, a common amino acid found in the body. According to the manufacturer, magnesium aspartate in skincare products supports the supply of magnesium to skin cells.
Zinc Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc GluconateOne of the most commonly used ingredients in anti-acne products. It is an organic salt of zinc that helps to combat microbial infections, soothes and heals inflamed pimples, and regulates hormones in the skin.
Sodium Hydroxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hydroxide

An ingredient that is able to bring the pH of a product up, thereby making it less harsh on the skin.

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Copper Gluconate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Copper GluconateAn organic salt of copper that can aid in the wound healing process. The manufacturer claims it also has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, although this has yet to be confirmed. Copper gluconate is also a perspective anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharomyces Cerevisiae ExtractA fungi ingredient made from baker's yeast. It is moisturizing and contains various beneficial compounds that support skin health. Among these is beta-glucan, the praised wound healing polysaccharide.
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Palmitoyl Dipeptide-7
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8

A small synthetic peptide that is thought to act similarly to Botox by calming contractions of the facial muscles and reducing expression wrinkles. The effect is only temporary and it does not improve the skin structure in any way.

Hexapeptide-3
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexapeptide-3